World Wildlife Day marked at Mahavir Harina Vanasthali with focus on medicinal plants
HYDERABAD: Officials celebrated World Wildlife Day at Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park on March 2, 2026, under the global theme, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conserving Health, Heritage & Livelihoods.”
The programme highlighted the need to conserve medicinal and aromatic plants. It also focused on their role in ecological balance, traditional knowledge, public health, and sustainable livelihoods.
Conservation key to ecological stability
Sri Vinay Kumar, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden, Telangana, attended the event as chief guest.
While addressing the gathering, he stressed that wildlife conservation remains essential for human survival and ecological stability. He further explained that medicinal and aromatic plants promote health, preserve traditional heritage, and create livelihood opportunities for rural and forest-dependent communities.
Moreover, he said conservation efforts should combine biodiversity protection with community welfare.
Students compete to spread awareness
Meanwhile, organisers conducted essay writing and drawing competitions for students from Pragathi High School, Gouthami Group of Schools, Honey Bees High School, St. Francis High School, and B.M. Concept School.
Judges later awarded prizes to the winners and appreciated their creativity and awareness of wildlife conservation.
In addition, several environmental and wildlife organisations took part in the event. These included Hyticos, WWF India, Voice of Earth, Meraki Organisation, Deccan Birders, Wildlife Rescue Unit, and Friends of Snake Society.
As part of the theme, the Medicinal Board of Telangana set up an exhibition stall. The team displayed medicinal and aromatic plants and explained their traditional uses, conservation value, and livelihood potential. Consequently, the stall attracted many students and visitors.
The chief guest then unveiled a World Wildlife Day 2026 poster featuring the theme. He also inaugurated a book titled “Birds of Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park.”
Several senior forest officials attended the programme. These included N. Kshitija, IFS, Chief Executive Officer, CAMPA; G. Rohit, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, Rangareddy district; Anjaneyulu, Deputy Conservator of Forests (Wildlife); Srinivas, Forest Divisional Officer, Forest Settlement Programme, Charminar; and Venkataiah, Forest Divisional Officer, Shamshabad.
Finally, the event concluded with a renewed call to conserve medicinal and aromatic plants. Organisers urged people to safeguard biodiversity, protect traditional knowledge systems, and strengthen sustainable livelihoods.
